Iron Jack— The Christians public life may partially be separated from his religious life—i.e. Rev.John Witherspoon ,as President of the College of New Jersey—and later as member of the Continental Congress. But No Christian ought allow the Government lay down the rules for what is legal Morally. “Our Constitution was made only for a Moral and Religious people,it is wholly inadequate for the government of any other.” President John Adams Oct.11,1798.Read the Fast Day Sermon preached by the President of the College of New Jersey ,John Witherspoon “The Dominion of Providence over the passions of Men “ p.529 Vol 1 Political Sermons of the American Founding Era ,1730-1805 Ellis Sandoz Editor Liberty Fund 1998.Or the Sermon Preached by Samuel West ,an Election Day Sermon ,1776 Note;Samuel west went on to serve as delegate to the Mass. Ratifying convention,1788.As proven by the life of Benedict Arnold who desperately wanted his public life as National Hero exploited but his private affairs as Traitor kept hidden. One cannot serve two masters. Whatever one is when no one else is looking is who they are when they serve in public office.
I think it’s important to draw the distinction between one’s MORAL life and one’ RELIGIOUS life. Where one’s religion is an integral part of himself and not just some ritualistic trapping, it informs his morality to the degree that the two are inseparable. But religion is about more than morals; it encompasses dogma, ritual, and liturgical practices. The latter can be compartmentalized for public officials; it is not valid to insist that your particular religious rituals be imposed on the general populace, for example. But it is undeniable — and desirable — that your moral values not be left behind at the statehouse door. If that happens, you become Nancy Pelosi or Ted Kennedy, professing a religion that you practice only as an occasional photo op, backdrop, or disguise.